Vitiligo is a skin condition in which the immune system attacks and destroys cells that produce skin pigment. This causes patches of skin to lose color.

Some research suggests the following herbal remedies may affect the vitiligo symptoms.

Researchers from a 2018 review do not know the exact mechanisms by which ginkgo biloba affects vitiligo. However, they believe it may involve the following properties of the plant:

• Anti-inflammatory: Vitiligo involves the release of inflammatory cytokines, proteins that cause inflammation. Anti-inflammatory therapies may help prevent further autoimmune damage from vitiligo after ultraviolet exposure.
• Immunomodulatory: Animal studies suggest that ginkgo biloba may significantly affect the immune system.
• Antioxidant: A 2023 review suggests ginkgo biloba’s antioxidant properties may have therapeutic potential for vitiligo.

Studies on ginkgo biloba’s effectiveness as a vitiligo therapy have varying results. The same 2018 review suggests the plant may effectively improve vitiligo symptoms, especially when combined with conventional therapies.

Some researchers suggest that ginkgo biloba may help induce repigmentation — the restoration of color to depigmented patches of skin. However, these results differ across studies.

More large-scale human studies are necessary to assess the extract’s effectiveness as a vitiligo treatment.

The review’s authors suggest ginkgo biloba is typically safe at a dosage of 120 milligrams (mg) per day. Larger doses may cause side effects, including gastrointestinal disorders and restlessness.

Green tea contains epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), a compound that may have protective properties against vitiligo and other health conditions. Green tea is also rich in antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties.

However, many studies on green tea and vitiligo use animal or cell studies, such as those in a 2022 narrative review. More research is necessary to determine the effectiveness of green tea as a vitiligo treatment, particularly using human participants.

Green tea is typically safe, up to around 8 cups per day. However, green tea supplements may make it easier to consume more than this recommended amount. Potential adverse effects include:

• Caffeine sensitivity: People who are sensitive to caffeine, pregnant, or breastfeeding may experience adverse effects.
• Liver problems: Rarely, green tea and its supplements may lead to liver problems.
• Birth abnormalities: Drinking more than 6 cups of green tea per day while pregnant could increase the risk of certain abnormalities associated with a folic acid deficiency.
• Harmful drug interactions: High levels of green tea may reduce blood levels and decrease the effectiveness of nadolol (Corgard), a beta-blocker that treats heart problems and high blood pressure.

Capsaicin is an active component of chili peppers. Research in a 2018 review suggests capsaicin may be an effective vitiligo therapy due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

The review includes an older experimental study from 2010 that suggests capsaicin may help prevent cellular damage.

A 2024 cell study suggests that combining capsaicin with stem cells may effectively stop the expression of specific genes associated with vitiligo, which could improve cell dysfunction.

However, although this research suggests promising results, studies involving human participants are necessary. People may not receive the same benefits when eating chili peppers or using capsaicin products.

Capsaicin is an irritant with various potential risks and side effects, including:

Cucumis melo, or muskmelon, contains high levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), an enzyme that may improve vitiligo by stopping the destruction of melanocytes.

However, a 2023 review article highlights mixed results in older studies investigating Cucumis melo as a topical therapy for repigmentation and other vitiligo symptoms.

More research is necessary to understand Cucumis melo’s safety and effectiveness for people with vitiligo.

Aloe vera is a short-stemmed shrub with succulent leaves that contain gel.

A very small 2023 study highlights the plant’s anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and wound-healing properties.

The researchers suggest that topical aloe vera helped with repigmentation in 86% of people with stable vitiligo after 3 months of treatment. However, the researchers note that study limitations include the small sample size and lack of a control group.

Further research is necessary to determine whether aloe vera is an effective vitiligo remedy.

Aloe vera is typically safe but may cause the following side effects:

• burning or itchy skin
• eczema
• acute hepatitis
• abdominal pain
• increasing the risk of adverse effects from certain drugs, such as digoxin (Lanoxin)

People should always consult a healthcare professional before trying herbal remedies, including aloe vera, for vitiligo.

“While several herbal remedies have shown promise in the management of vitiligo, more research is needed. It is crucial to discuss any herbal remedies you are considering with your medical provider before starting any on your own. Though many herbal remedies are generally regarded as “safe,” several have known interactions with various medications that can be dangerous. Your medical provider should go over your list of prescription and over-the-counter medications and potential interactions with you before deciding to try any herbal remedies for vitiligo.”

— Megan Soliman, MD

A 2018 review suggests various natural remedies, including ginkgo biloba, green tea, and aloe vera, may improve vitiligo symptoms. However, more research is necessary to determine their safety and effectiveness.

People should speak with a doctor before trying natural remedies to ensure they are safe. A doctor may also be able to suggest alternative remedies with more scientific support.

A 2024 study concludes that drinks high in antioxidants, including various teas, coffee, and red wine, may reduce the risk of vitiligo. However, further research is necessary to understand the extent of this effect.

There is no cure for vitiligo. However, treatment can help improve the symptoms and slow the progression of the disease.